Can Lorazepam Intake Cause Alzheimer's Disease?

Posted on Thu, 18 May 2017

Question: yesterday my doctor told me that bentos cause Alzeheimers. is this true?
that should say bentos
lorezapam

Answered by Dr. Ishu Bishnoi (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Bentos relation with Alzheimer's disease

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX o2016, thanks for asking from HCM.

I can understand your concern. The Alzheimer is caused by degeneration of acetylcholine containing nerves in brain. It occurs due to deposition of amyloid.

The bentos containing lorazepam is a benzodiazepine drug. It is given for anxiety. It acts by slowing brain (enhancing action of GABA chemical). Due to CNS slowing action, it can cause sedation, poor memory, difficulty in recalling things. But all these side effects related to memory are gone when patient is not taking it. Bentos do not cause permanent changes in brain chemical acetylcholine (Ach) or Ach contains nerves.

Thus it does not cause Alzheimer disease. However in case of Alzheimer disease or any disease related with poor memory, Bentos should only be given after considering risk verse benefit ration.

Hope it will clear your doubt. If you need any help, do let me know.
Thanks. Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy